Isiolo, Kenya| In a landmark ruling that has sent shockwaves through Isiolo County’s political landscape, the High Court has delivered a resounding affirmation of Abdullahi Jaldesa Banticha‘s position as Speaker of the Isiolo County Assembly.
Presiding Judge S. Chirchir dismissed a challenge mounted by former Speaker Mohamed Roba Qoto (MRQ), reinforcing Banticha’s legitimacy and dealing a significant setback to his rival’s claims.
The case centered on Gazette Notice No. 11384, issued on August 25, 2025, which temporarily relocated County Assembly sittings to Oldonyiro amid security concerns and renovations at the main chambers in Isiolo town.
MRQ sought to be joined as an interested party, arguing that the relocation undermined his authority and implied a change in leadership.
However, Judge Chirchir clarified that the operative document was Gazette Notice No. 8667 from June 2025, which unequivocally recognized Banticha as the duly elected Speaker following a legitimate assembly process.
“No official record or evidence suggests any alteration to the Speakership at the time of the relocation gazettement,” the judge noted in her decisive verdict.
MRQ’s application was dismissed, marking yet another legal triumph for Banticha in a protracted dispute that has seen parallel assemblies, vandalism incidents, and multiple court battles throughout 2025.
Background: A Turbulent Year of Power Struggles in Isiolo
The roots of this saga trace back to mid-2025, when deep divisions emerged within the County Assembly.
Banticha, a former County Executive Committee member for Finance and a seasoned political figure, was gazetted as Speaker in June via Notice No. 8667 after a faction of MCAs aligned with Governor Guyo moved to replace MRQ.
This followed a failed impeachment attempt against the Governor, during which MRQ’s leadership was accused of procedural irregularities, including defying court orders.
Subsequent twists included temporary revocations of Banticha’s gazettement, conservatory orders from various courts preserving the status quo, and allegations of forgery investigated by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
Parallel sittings ensued: one faction under Banticha operating from Oldonyiro (termed “Bunge Mashinani” for grassroots accessibility), and MRQ’s group holding firm at the traditional chambers despite reported vandalism.
The relocation to Oldonyiro, justified by Banticha’s camp as necessary for uninterrupted legislative business and member safety, became a flashpoint.
Critics viewed it as a maneuver to consolidate power, but the court’s latest ruling validates the administrative decision without implicating leadership changes.
Banticha’s Strategic Triumph: Patience and Legal Precision Prevail
This victory underscores Banticha’s masterful navigation of Isiolo’s complex political terrain.
Known for his calm demeanor, strategic alliances, and unwavering commitment to constitutional processes, Banticha has emerged as a stabilizing force amid chaos.
His team’s meticulous adherence to gazette notices and court filings has consistently outmaneuvered opponents, cementing his role as the undisputed Speaker.
Supporters hail the ruling as a testament to resilience and good governance. “Hon. Banticha represents a new era of leadership focused on service delivery and unity,” said one MCA from his faction.
With the High Court’s endorsement, Banticha is now positioned to steer the Assembly toward key priorities, including budget oversight, public participation reforms, and development projects benefiting Isiolo residents.
Analysts note that Banticha’s approach—combining legal acumen with political patience—has not only secured his position but also highlighted the importance of institutional integrity in devolved governance.
Setback for MRQ: A Cautionary Tale of Political Alliances
For MRQ, once a close ally of Governor Guyo, and rose to prominence through that partnership, the ruling represents a profound reversal.
His earlier attempts to challenge his political benefactor, the Governor, politically have been portrayed by observers as a classic case of betrayal and overreach, eroding key support networks.
Recent reports of strained relations with influential figures, including Senator Fatuma Dullo, a former backer, have further isolated his camp.
Facing mounting legal defeats, financial strain from prolonged litigation, and diminishing political capital, MRQ now confronts difficult choices: graceful retirement from the fray or persistence in a battle increasingly seen as uphill.
The judgment serves as a stark reminder in Kenyan politics: alliances must be nurtured with loyalty, and betrayals often invite repercussions.
Future Outlook: Potential Appeals and Calls for Reconciliation
While the ruling fortifies Banticha’s authority, legal experts warn that appeals could prolong the saga into 2027 elections or beyond, potentially in higher courts.
Conflicting orders from previous cases remain under review, and ongoing probes into assembly irregularities add layers of uncertainty.
Nonetheless, this decisive blow emphasizes core lessons from Isiolo’s turmoil: the supremacy of constitutional clarity, the value of strategic maneuvering, and the risks of divisive politics.
As the county seeks stability, voices from across the divide call for dialogue to heal rifts and prioritize resident welfare.
For now, Banticha stands tall as Isiolo’s legitimate Speaker- a beacon of victory through perseverance in one of Kenya’s most watched devolved leadership contests.
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